A pain that has endured for 105 years is commemorated in Cabar.

 

 On the anniversary of the Cabar Massacre, one of the most sorrowful chapters of the National Struggle, which took place on the night of April 1–2, 1921, a commemoration program was held in the Bileşe locality of Cabar Neighborhood in Çivril district. Hosted by Denizli Metropolitan Municipality on the very lands where the flame of independence was ignited, the program was attended by Acting Mayor of Denizli Metropolitan Municipality Ali Marım, Çivril Mayor Semih Dere, department heads of the Metropolitan Municipality, Cabar Neighbourhood Headman Besim Yaşar, district protocol members, and many citizens. The ceremony began with a wreath-laying, a moment of silence, and the recitation of the National Anthem.

 

“The flame of Independence will never be extinguished on these lands”

 

 In his speech at the ceremony, Acting Mayor Ali Marım stated, “Denizli is the place where the fire of the National Struggle was first ignited in Türkiye with the call of Müftü Ahmet Hulusi Efendi, and where the homeland was defended with stones and sticks despite all hardships. Today, we continue to witness similar acts of brutality in different parts of the world, where oppressed peoples are targeted by forces pursuing their own interests. However, we are a nation that can unite for its flag, its land, and its honour, overcoming every challenge together. As long as we remain committed to the principles and guidance of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, we will continue to live freely on these lands. Under the leadership of our Metropolitan Municipality and our Mayor, Bülent Nuri Çavuşoğlu, we will never forget these 83 heroes who gave their lives in defence of the homeland, and we wsill continue to pass on their sacred memory and the spirit of independence they left behind to future generations. May all our martyrs rest in peace.”

 

“The legacy of Cabar is our greatest responsibility”

 

 Çivril Mayor Semih Dere, in his speech, emphasised the resistance of the people of Cabar, stating, “Our foremost duty is to firmly protect this beautiful homeland entrusted to us by Atatürk, along with our democracy and Republic, and to carry our country into a brighter future. On this occasion, I respectfully commemorate, with mercy and gratitude, all our martyrs and devoted veterans, especially Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of our Republic.”

 

Cabar Martyrs commemorated with prayers

 

 During the ceremony, Teacher Münir Sayhan once again shared the details of the tragic events that took place in Çivril Cabar on April 1, 1921. Following the speeches, prayers were offered for the 83 civilian martyrs who were killed 105 years ago. Participants laid carnations on the graves of the martyrs, honouring their sacred memory once again.